Give Reconciliation a Chance

         

A major goal we have set in motion is making life predictable and free from anxiety and worry. We need security and stability so that when the unpredictable happens, we’re able to avoid a major crisis. When Joseph’s brothers came to Egypt to buy grain, his well-ordered life spun into turmoil. For twenty years he hadn’t seen his brothers who hated him.

Joseph saw this as a chance for reconciliation, but he did not trust his brothers. A test we face in life is what to do with anger and sadness from past betrayals and disappointments that have not healed. Although Joseph was overcome with emotions, he determined to use reason and logic to give reconciliation a chance.

Joseph's goal was to fuse together his fragmented family. A crisis either tests your character strengths and behaviors or adds fuel to the fire of resentment and revenge. Using a crisis as a tool for reconciliation builds a bridge to integrity and paves the way for restoring peace and harmony. It pleases the Lord Jesus Christ when this becomes your objective. 

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“Now it’s time to change your ways! Turn and face God so he can wipe away your sins, pour out showers of blessing to refresh you.”

~Acts 3:19 The Message

Get rid of all bitterness, passion, and anger. No more shouting or insults, no more hateful feelings of any sort. Instead, be kind and tenderhearted to one another, and forgive one another, as God has forgiven you through Christ.

~Ephesians 4:31-32 Good News Bible

Challenges that Come with Change - Part 2

Predictability is desirable for life to feel secure. Predictability equates to constancy, which encourages hope for an ever-changing world. While constancy and change seem to be polar-opposites, human beings need variation and change to stave off boredom. Most individuals develop a healthy tolerance for constancy and change.

We flourish where constancy exists because mastery of life’s tasks requires it. Still there must be flexibility for change and adjustment. When Jesus sent his disciples out to preach the Good News of his coming, their message was to be constant, but their response was to be flexible, depending on how the message was received.

Change should be anticipated, but the uncertainty associated with change can create anxiety. Imagine going out to preach, teach, and heal others, without knowing how you will be received. You will be anxious and afraid, but equipped with the Holy Spirit, you will have power to enjoy God’s purpose for your life. May God bless you.